Hackler's heroics earn him weekly NET honors

It was a game to remember for David Crockett’s football team on Friday night, and Donta Hackler’s performance lifted him into the area spotlight.

The 6-foot-4, 190-pound junior hauled in a career-high 12 passes and added the game-winning touchdown in a thrilling 34-27 win over rival Daniel Boone in the Musket Bowl.

For his efforts, Hackler earned the top spot in this week’s Northeast Tennessee honor roll.

5-Star

Donta Hackler

David Crockett, WR

Hackler totaled 168 yards receiving on his 12 receptions and found the end zone from 18 and 15 yards out as Crockett built a 26-14 lead. With his team trailing by a point and just under three minutes left in the game, Hackler caught a 41-yard touchdown pass for the game winner.

4-Star

Cade Larkins

David Crockett, QB

It was yet another terrific performance for the junior quarterback. He hit on 33 of 47 passes for 410 yards and four touchdowns to help his team remain undefeated.

3-Star

Ian Hicks

Dobyns-Bennett, RB

Workhorse plus some, the Indians needed every bit of Hicks’ 38 carries, 246 yards and three touchdowns in a 38-29 win over Morristown West.

2-Star

Corey Russell

Elizabethton, RB

With a home playoff berth at stake, Russell totaled 213 all-purpose yards with three touchdowns. Included in the mix was 100 yards receiving, eight tackle and a 40-yard interception return.

1-Star

Nathan Lane

Johnson County, DB

Lane turned in the game winner with a 55-yard pick-6 with 40.9 seconds left for the 14-8 win over Cloudland. He had three interceptions, 10 tackles and 80 yards rushing with a touchdown.